Wildbase at Massey University

Wildbase is part of an overall upgrade to the Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences at Massey University’s Turitea Campus in Palmerston North. The upgrade, of which Wildbase forms one part, allows the Institute to accommodate increasing student numbers, expanded programmes and incorporate new animal hospital facilities.

Wildbase has a new animal hospital on the ground floor and new accommodation for administration staff on the upper three levels. The new building is connected to the nearby clinic building via a covered link space and atrium element, which also provides a new entry and reception for the Vet School.

Wildbase is also the location of New Zealand's only dedicated wildlife hospital. Rare and endangered native birds, reptiles and mammals are treated in the hospital facilities.

The form and structure of the building is a direct response to the brief requirement for a flexible floor plate with no internal structure. The building is clad in vertical precast concrete sandwich panels on a 1500mm module that forms the structural system. Studio Pacific partnered with specialist architects Labworks to undertake the project.

 

Designed for the Environment

The form and structure of the building is a direct response to the requirement for a flexible floor plate with no internal structure. The building is clad in precast concrete sandwich panels on a 1500mm module that form the structural system.

Sustainable features include:

• The new building connects to the nearby clinic through a covered link space and atrium, promoting accessibility and reducing the need for separate structures.
• The design incorporates a flexible floor plate without internal structure, allowing for adaptable use of space as needs change over time.
• The building is clad in precast concrete sandwich panels, which can enhance thermal efficiency and reduce construction waste.
• The new atrium serves as an inviting entry point for the Vet School, fostering community engagement and connectivity within the campus.